Michail Antonio is ready for Watford on a free transfer. The former West Ham striker has signed a one-year contract – one year after the car accident that almost cost him his career.
Former West Ham striker Michail Antonio has called Watford “a big club” after he signed for the Hornets on a free transfer. The 36-year-old has signed a one-year contract.
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The striker has spent a month training with Alessio Dionisi’s side, and is now just waiting for international approval to make his debut at home at Vicarage Road against Stoke City on Saturday.
“It’s a nice group here,” Antonio told Watford’s website.
“They are focused and ready to show what they are good at this season.
“A big club”
“Watford is a big club and hopefully I can come in and contribute successfully and help out where I can.
“I’ve scored a few goals against Watford, so hopefully I can score some for Watford now that I’m fully up and running.
Antonio’s last game for West Ham was in a 3–1 defeat away to Leicester City in the Premier League on December 3, 2024.
Four days later, he broke his leg in a car accident – and took several months to recover.
Ten years at West Ham
The Jamaican international was released by West Ham in June 2025 after ten years at the club. But he returned to train with his former club during his rehabilitation.
Antonio remains the Hammers’ all-time top scorer in the Premier League with 68 goals. He made two appearances for the club’s U21 team in Premier League 2 before continuing his quest for a return to senior football.
The former Nottingham Forest, Sheffield Wednesday, Reading and Tooting & Mitcham United striker briefly joined Qatari side Al-Sailiya earlier this year. His last of four appearances for the club came in April.
Watford drew 1-1 at home to West Ham in the second division last month, and will visit the London Stadium on April 17.
